For Indians, it appears that it would be most prudent to have a diet with about 50 per cent carbohydrate (using complex carbs and whole grains such as brown rice or whole wheat) about 20-25 per cent protein (preferably from vegetable proteins such as legumes and pulses) and the remaining 25-30 per cent from healthy fats like monounsaturated fats (e.g. groundnut oil or mustard oil and nuts and seeds) along with plenty of green leafy vegetables. Such a diet may not immediately give dramatic results as far as weight reduction is concerned. However, it will be sustainable in the long term and will be less risky and certainly more healthy and also help prevent non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.